French President Emmanuel Macron has outlined an expansive strategy aimed at facilitating the arrival of 30,000 Indian students in France by the year 2030, marking a significant endeavor to enhance educational connections between the two nations.
During a visit to India, where he is participating in the 75th Republic Day celebrations as the chief guest, Macron announced via a post on X (formerly Twitter) that this initiative forms part of a "bold" endeavor to fortify France's ties with India, emphasizing India's pivotal role as a "key partner" in the Indo-Pacific region. This target was unveiled after Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited France in July 2023.
"We are instituting novel avenues to learn French within public schools through the 'French for All, French for a Better Future' initiative," Macron elucidated.
Expanding on the initiative, Macron elaborated, "We are expanding the network of Alliances françaises, establishing new centers for French language acquisition. Additionally, we are introducing international classes to facilitate the integration of students, even those who may not possess proficiency in French, into our universities."
Macron also underscored that the visa procedures would be streamlined for former Indian students who have pursued education in France, simplifying their return. This announcement aligns with France's initial objective of attracting 20,000 Indian students by 2025, laying the groundwork for the broader aspiration of reaching 30,000 by 2030.
"While it is an exceedingly ambitious goal, I am steadfast in my commitment to realize it," Macron affirmed.
The French administration has already initiated measures to facilitate Indian students' enrollment in French universities. In 2018, it inaugurated the "Campus France" program, offering guidance and assistance to Indian students interested in pursuing studies in France. Since its inception, the program has contributed to a 20 percent surge in the number of Indian students enrolling in French institutions.
Prime Minister Modi extended a warm welcome to President Macron's visit to India, which encompasses participation in the Republic Day ceremony on January 26. Expressing his pleasure, PM Modi took to social media platforms to laud Macron's commencement of his two-day visit to Rajasthan, where he embarked on a tour of Jaipur's iconic landmarks such as Amber Fort, Jantar Mantar, and Hawa Mahal.
The two leaders showcased their strong camaraderie through a vibrant roadshow in the Pink City, during which Macron was presented with a replica of Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir and savored masala chai before engaging in bilateral discussions. Their deliberations centered on further strengthening strategic collaboration in defense, security, trade, and renewable energy.
